Target vs. Ikea Furnishing Throwdown

WHOSE FURNITURE FINISHES FIRST?

Ikea and Target are both known as home-makeover meccas. Boasting cheap prices and large selections, the two stores are incredibly popular for college dorms, millennial apartments, and budget-conscious family homes. So which store is actually the better bargain? We shopped the inventory at both places and compared similar products to see which came out on top. Price, number of reviews, quality of construction, and variety are all factors that were taken into account. Take a look at our product comparisons to see who wins the home furnishing gauntlet.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

FUTON RUNNER-UP: BALKARP SLEEPER SOFA

Est. Price: $109 | Buy it from IkeaA simple black sleeper sofa with three positions: sit, recline, or lie down. It's available in either black or gray.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

FUTON WINNER: ROOM ESSENTIALS FUTON

Est. Price: $99 | Buy it from TargetThe Target futon just squeaks out ahead based on the slightly cheaper price and higher number of four star reviews. In the end, users caution that at only about $100, both futons are "you get what you pay for." They seem to be good options for a college dorm room, or short-term use for house guests.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

LOVESEAT RUNNER-UP: KNISLINGE LOVESEAT

Est. Price: $279 | Buy it from IkeaA high back provides decent neck support, while the microfiber cover is soft and easy to clean.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

LOVESEAT WINNER: THRESHOLD TUFTED LOVESEAT

Est. Price: $365 | Buy it from TargetWith over 400 reviews and a nearly perfect five-star rating, this Target loveseat is worth the extra money. The tufted back adds a sophisticated element and the construction is sturdy. For a similar style at about $100 less, try this loveseat instead.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

SOFA RUNNER-UP: OLIVA TUFTED LEATHER SOFA

Est. Price: $560 | Buy it from TargetFrom Furniture of America, this black three-seater sofa is made from bonded leather and has a tufted back.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

SOFA WINNER: EKTORP SOFA

Est. Price: $500 | Buy it from IkeaSave the extra $60 and stick with this classic black sofa from Ikea. Although made from synthetic fibers and fabric, it's comfortable and comparable to the Target version. And although Target's has "leather" on the label, it's bonded leather, meaning it's made from a compilation of leftover leather pieces.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

SECTIONAL RUNNER-UP: KIVIK 3-SEAT SECTIONAL SOFA

Est. Price: $929 | Buy it from IkeaLow armrests and memory foam seating provide utmost comfort for lounging and relaxing. A reviewer suggests that it's also easy to clean.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

SECTIONAL WINNER: CANTERBURY 3-PIECE SECTIONAL SOFA

Est. Price: $880 | Buy it from TargetAn added ottoman and plush pillows take this sectional above and beyond its Ikea cohort. Reviews suggest that it is a bit more narrow than expected, but still provides more space than the Ikea 3-seater.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

ACCENT CHAIR RUNNER-UP: TULLSTA CHAIR

Est. Price: $109 | Buy it from IkeaInexpensive and lightweight, this is a classic accent chair for any living room. Unfortunately, it only comes in dark gray and natural cream, the latter of which reviewers say is difficult to clean. The lightweight nature also may cause the chair to shift easily while in use.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

ACCENT CHAIR WINNER: THRESHOLD BARREL CHAIR

Est. Price: $180 | Buy it from TargetReviewers love the easy assembly and mid-century modern design, plus it is extremely comfortable and wide enough for all body types. It's available in five neutral colors so it can pair with any room design. For something with a little more rounded design and over 100 positive reviews, try the Portland Tub Chair.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

LOUNGE CHAIR RUNNER-UP: MIA BENTWOOD LOUNGE CHAIR

Est. Price: $66 | Buy it from TargetAttempting Ikea's contemporary ergonomic aesthetic, this Target lounge chair just doesn't make the cut when it comes to quality.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

LOUNGE CHAIR WINNER: POÄNG CHAIR

Est. Price: $79 | Buy it from IkeaThis quintessential Ikea chair has been in circulation for over 40 years, and users are dedicated fans -- for good reason. Reviewers say it's extremely comfortable and easy to maintain, plus it comes with over 15 washable covers to choose from.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

WOOD COFFEE TABLE RUNNER-UP: NO TOOLS COFFEE TABLE

Est. Price: $30 | Buy it from TargetBoasting a "no tools" tagline, this coffee table is convenient, easy to maintain, and able to match any living room.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

WOOD COFFEE TABLE WINNER: LACK COFFEE TABLE

Est. Price: $25 | Buy it from IkeaWith more five-star reviews, this simple coffee table is a better bargain and sturdier than expected. Plus it has a separate shelf for extra storage.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

GLASS COFFEE TABLE RUNNER-UP: VITTSJÖ NESTING TABLES

Est. Price: $60 | Buy it from IkeaTwo tables for only $60 is quite a deal. Reviewers love that they can be adjusted to fit your layout, plus the clear tempered glass is easy to clean and makes your room appear more spacious. It's also available with black railing.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

GLASS COFFEE TABLE WINNER: OVAL GLASS COFFEE TABLE

Est. Price: $72 | Buy it from TargetThe perfect, modern coffee table for a small space. This one wins due to its unique design and higher ratings.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

TV STAND RUNNER-UP: SAUDER DRAWER TV STAND

Est. Price: $75 | Buy it from TargetFeaturing two open shelves and two drawers, this is a great little entertainment center. Reviewers say that it can hold a good amount of weight, and is perfect for storing video game consoles.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

TV STAND WINNER: BRIMNES TV UNIT

Est. Price: $80 | Buy it from IkeaThe large glass drawers and closed shelves aesthetically and functionally make this entertainment stand the winner. It has several five-star reviews that say it's easy to put together, and that the drawers are quite deep.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

ACCENT RUG RUNNER-UP: TÅSTRUP RUG

Est. Price: $50 | Buy it from IkeaThe bright circle pattern is a fun look; however the cream base could easily become dirtied.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

ACCENT RUG WINNER: AURORA RUG

Est. Price: $45 | Buy it from TargetThis one is available in yellow or turquoise and as either an area rug or a runner. The bright colors and trendy geometric pattern make it a top choice for an affordable living room rug. It also has a slip-resistant latex backing to prevent any movement.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

AREA RUG RUNNER-UP: VALBY RUTA RUG

Est. Price: $129 | Buy it from IkeaThis vintage style rug is a popular choice due to its plush feel and easy ability to clean. It comes in three sizes and would be a great choice for an area rug.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

AREA RUG WINNER: LYNDHURST AREA RUG

Est. Price: $110 | Buy it from TargetWith over 15 sizes to choose from, as well as a range of colors and patterns, this version of the classic area rug wins out. Reviewers say that it is incredibly durable and lasts in high-traffic areas. Go for the 6' x 9' in black/red.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

METAL BED RUNNER-UP: TILDEN METAL BED

Est. Price: $289 | Buy it from TargetThis queen size bed is available in a white or bronze frame, and also as a full or twin. It receives great reviews for design as well as construction.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

METAL BED WINNER: KOPARDAL BED FRAME

Est. Price: $179 | Buy it from IkeaReviewers say this metal frame bed is sturdy and easy to put together, though the coloring is a bit off than what is advertised online. If you're looking for a simple metal bed, we recommend this one. It's about $100 cheaper, and does not have the foot railing so can accommodate taller individuals.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

PLATFORM BED RUNNER-UP: BRIMNES BED FRAME WITH STORAGE

Est. Price: $249 | Buy it from IkeaThis platform bed has four spacious drawers that are a lifesaver when it comes to small apartments.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

PLATFORM BED WINNER: MURRAY PLATFORM BED

Est. Price: $220 | Buy it from TargetMade from Asian hardwood yellow meranti, this straightforward bed frame is durable, minimalist, and modern. Although the Ikea platform bed has nifty storage, it's made of particleboard, and we prefer the quality of this solid wood option.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

HEADBOARD FRAME RUNNER-UP: HEMNES BED FRAME

Est. Price: $249 | Buy it from IkeaThe solid pine construction is a definite plus, and according to reviews, it maintains its durability through the years.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

HEADBOARD FRAME WINNER: SLEEP REVOLUTION PLATFORM BED

Est. Price: $319 | Buy it from TargetThe square stitched headboard is a smart touch that makes it appear just a bit higher quality than the Ikea bed. Plus according to users, you can put it together without any tools. The Sleep Revolution bed is also available in taupe, black, and dark brown.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

SMALL DRESSER RUNNER-UP: ROOM ESSENTIALS 3-DRAWER DRESSER

Est. Price: $80 | Buy it from TargetA solid, sturdy dresser with a smooth espresso finish and clean lines. It blends nicely into any bedroom and is also available in white.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

SMALL DRESSER WINNER: MALM 3-DRAWER DRESSER

Est. Price: $99 | Buy it from IkeaWith higher reviews and more colors available, this standard bedroom dresser wins out over the Target version. Reviews say it's sturdy and spacious, and it's also available in six colors, including classic wood finishes as well as fun turquoise and green.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

LARGE DRESSER RUNNER-UP: STORKCRAFT KENTON 6-DRAWER DRESSER

Est. Price: $268 | Buy it from TargetUsers love the look of this dresser and overall recommend the piece; however some say the quality of the drawers is questionable.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

LARGE DRESSER WINNER: HEMNES 6-DRAWER CHEST

Est. Price: $199 | Buy it from IkeaConstructed from solid pine, this dresser is a quality investment. Its height is another added benefit for saving space in small apartments or homes. Users say that the drawers slide easily, and they enjoy the knob accents. Upgrade to the 8-drawer version for only $50 more.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

WRITING DESK RUNNER-UP: NO TOOLS ASSEMBLY DESK

Est. Price: $39 | Buy it from TargetAt less than $50, this desk is cheap and would function great for college students or a low-use home office. It has open shelves for storage, and is available in a lighter wood finish.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

WRITING DESK WINNER: BRUSALI DESK

Est. Price: $50 | Buy it from IkeaThis Ikea desk wins out due it it's more solid appearance, plus ample storage. It has a 3-tiered storage area with multiple shelves and a dedicated area to hide cords. It gets high marks from reviewers too.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

COMPUTER DESK RUNNER-UP: KALLAX WORKSTATION

Est. Price: $103 | Buy it from IkeaThis workstation looks impressive, but the attached shelving unit might be hard to place in a smaller home office. It does come in six different colors and accents so can easily pair with your existing furniture.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

COMPUTER DESK WINNER: ROOM ESSENTIALS COMPUTER DESK

Est. Price: $70 | Buy it from TargetWe prefer this open-air desk simply for the space-saving abilities. Reviewers say that it has a high-weight capacity and is sturdy.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

OFFICE CHAIR RUNNER-UP: FLINTAN SWIVEL CHAIR

Est. Price: $70 | Buy it from IkeaThis armless office chair is popular due to its mesh backing and supportive tilt resistance.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

OFFICE CHAIR WINNER: BELNICK SWIVEL TASK CHAIR

Est. Price: $60 | Buy it from TargetLess rigid than the Ikea swivel chair, this one has a flexible back arm and can adjust to your desired reclining. It also has a mesh back for cooling circulation, and the seat appears to be more padded.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

STORAGE UNIT RUNNER-UP: THRESHOLD CUBE ORGANIZER

Est. Price: $40 | Buy it from TargetAvailable in five colors, this convenient storage unit is great for home office organization. It has a finished front and back so it can be shown on both sides, or put up against a wall.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

STORAGE UNIT WINNER: KALLAX SHELF UNIT

Est. Price: $35 | Buy it from IkeaWith over 50 five-star reviews, this type of shelving unit is Ikea's bread and butter. It has the ability to stack, stand, or attach to the wall, and users love the versatility and storage space. It's also available in five other colors. At $5 cheaper than practically the same exact product as Target, we say go with this one.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

BOOKCASE RUNNER-UP: LINON FOLDING BOOKCASE

Est. Price: $70 | Buy it from TargetUsers love this easy-to-put-together bookcase. It has four shelves and an open-air design that makes rooms appear larger.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

BOOKCASE WINNER: LAIVA BOOKCASE

Est. Price: $25 | Buy it from IkeaAt the same height and similar style, this bookcase is a fraction of the cost of the Target version. It has five shelves and extremely positive reviews.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

BISTRO SET RUNNER-UP: THRESHOLD DINING SET

Est. Price: $200 | Buy it TargetA solid dining room table for two, this set has an expandable table with hidden storage, ideal for small spaces.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

BISTRO SET WINNER: INGATORP/STEFAN DINING SET

Est. Price: $187 | Buy it from IkeaThe small details edge this dining set out over the Target one. The chair design as well as the carving accent on the table legs make it seem a lot more expensive than it actually is. It's constructed from solid pine, and is adjustable to accommodate two to four people.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

DINING SET RUNNER-UP: REDMOND DINING SET

Est. Price: $360 | Buy it from TargetThis simple, charming set is made of solid wood and has easy-to-clean microfiber seat cushions. The wood grain finish nods to traditional American craftsmanship.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

DINING SET WINNER: LERHAMN DINING SET

Est. Price: $219 | Buy it from IkeaThis four-chair set is constructed of solid pine and has upholstered chair seats for a polished look. Although darker than the Target set, it's almost the exact same style for over $100 less. And the solid wood construction means you're not sacrificing quality.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

METAL KITCHEN CART RUNNER-UP: GRUNDTAL KITCHEN CART

Est. Price: $149 | Buy it from IkeaThe price is steep, but this cart is made of stainless steel. It has a convenient drawer, shelf, wine or bottle rack, and metal bin at the bottom.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

METAL KITCHEN CART WINNER: ROOM ESSENTIALS MICROWAVE CART

Est. Price: $48 | Buy it from TargetAt less than $50, this sleek cart is restaurant quality and industrial chic. It has a wooden top that can hold small kitchen appliances, or function as a cutting board. It also has two metal shelves and hanging hooks.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ikea.com

WOOD KITCHEN CART RUNNER-UP: FÖRHÖJA KITCHEN CART

Est. Price: $109 | Buy it from IkeaThis solid birch cart is a great piece for any kitchen. It has two storage shelves and two drawers that can be pulled out from either side. Users love that it brightens up their kitchens, is sturdy, and does not take up a lot of room.

Photo credit: Courtesy of target.com

WOOD KITCHEN CART WINNER: WINSOME UTILITY CART

Est. Price: $109 | Buy it from TargetThe Target kitchen cart just barely comes out ahead as an exceptional bargain, according to reviews. We love the side towel rack, pull-out cutting board, and connected knife block. It also has a lovely natural satin finish.

Photo credit: Sean Wandzilak/shutterstock

AND THE WINNER IS...

On average, Target has about six times as many items per category than Ikea. Target also has free shipping on orders $35+ and free returns, whereas Ikea's shipping and return costs can be upwards of $99 depending on where you live. With selection and shipping in mind, along with number of reviews, design variety, and overall price, Target is the winner -- but just barely. Our product comparison came out to Target ahead by only one. When it comes to storage, Ikea reigns supreme for all rooms. And just because Target has more to offer, doesn't necessarily mean that's a good thing. If too many options clutter your mind, stick with Ikea's smaller, contemporary minimalist collection. Just remember that if you do decide to shop Ikea online, be sure to buy a few pieces at once as opposed to separate orders to save on that shipping cost.

UP NEXT

Cheapism.com participates in affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a commission if you choose to purchase a product through a link on our site. This helps support our work and does not influence editorial content.